News release

11 January 2008

Have a traditional Kiwi off-track tramp in East Harbour

Greater Wellington has lined up some good, old-fashioned Kiwi tramps in a stunning setting as part of its Regional Outdoors Programme this summer.

“The guided tramps in East Harbour Regional Park are a great way to push play and discover breathtaking beauty, right in our backyard,” says Greater Wellington’s Parks, Forests and Utilities Committee Chair Cr Rex Kirton.

The park is a magnificent sweep of beech forests, drowned valleys and a rocky coastline between Wainuiomata and Eastbourne, sweeping from the tip of Pencarrow Head right down to Seaview.

“I urge anybody who hasn’t visited the park, or hasn’t checked it out for a while, to book a place on one of the tramps. No prior tramping experience is required – just a good fitness level and sturdy walking boots,” says Cr Kirton.

The tramps take place in January and February. Each of the tramps is led by experienced guides with a wealth of knowledge that they will share about the plants and animals in the park. The tramps promise to be a rewarding experience for all participants.

Giant Rata Journey

Join local group MIRO on a guided off-track tramp from Days Bay to Eastbourne and learn about their quest to protect this magnificent forest from predators.

When: Sat 19 Jan, 9am - 3pm
Where: East Harbour Regional Park, Williams Park entrance, Days Bay. For public transport details phone Metlink on 0800 801 700 or visit www.metlink.org.nz. By car, exit SH2 at Petone and follow the Esplanade to Williams Park at Days Bay (via Waione St and Seaview Rd).

Upper Gollan's Valley Off Track Adventure

Explore the off-track heart of East Harbour Regional Park.

When: Sat 26 Jan, 9am - 4pm
Where: East Harbour Regional Park, Lees Grove entrance, Wainuiomata. For public transport details phone 0800 801 7000 or see www.metlink.org.nz. By car, turn right into Davis St off Wainuiomata Rd, left into Fraser St and right into Lees Grove.

Lower Gollans Valley Off-Track Adventure

Explore the off-track wilderness of lower Gollans Valley in the second adventure of the series.

When: Sat 16 Feb, 9am - 4pm

Where: East Harbour Regional Park, Williams Park entrance. For public transport details phone Metlink on 0800 801 700 or visit www.metlink.org.nz. By car, exit SH2 at Petone and follow the Esplanade to Days Bay (via Waione St and Seaview Rd). Meet the Ranger at Williams Park carpark.

Important information for each of the tramps:

Bookings: Bookings are essential as numbers are limited. Email bookings@gw.govt.nz or phone 381 7735.

What to bring: Take a backpack with waterproof clothes, tramping boots or strong lace-up walking shoes, picnic lunch and/or snacks and at least one litre of water per person. Sunblock and a sunhat are essential.

ENDS

© Scoop Media